Product Introduction:
Dasakast 50mg is an oral chemotherapy medication used to treat Philadelphia chromosome-positive (Ph+) chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). It belongs to the class of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) that target abnormal proteins responsible for uncontrolled cancer cell growth. Dasakast helps slow down or stop the progression of leukemia and improves survival rates in patients.
Uses of Dasakast 50mg Tablet:
Dasakast 50mg is prescribed for:
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Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) – Used in both chronic and accelerated phases of CML.
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Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) – Specifically for Philadelphia chromosome-positive (Ph+) cases.
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Resistance to Other TKIs – Effective in patients who do not respond to Imatinib or other TKIs.
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Treatment of Certain Leukemic Mutations – Used in patients with specific BCR-ABL gene mutations.
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Maintenance Therapy in Leukemia – Helps in long-term disease control and remission maintenance.
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Potential Off-Label Uses – Under research for use in other cancers and myeloproliferative disorders.
Storage Instructions:
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Store at room temperature (15°C – 30°C) in a dry place.
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Keep the tablets in their original packaging to protect from moisture.
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Keep out of reach of children and pets.
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Do not use if the tablet appears discolored or damaged.
How Dasakast 50mg Works (Mechanism of Action):
Dasatinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that works by blocking the BCR-ABL fusion protein, which is responsible for the uncontrolled growth of cancer cells in Philadelphia chromosome-positive leukemia. By inhibiting this protein, Dasakast 50mg:
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Slows down or stops cancer cell growth
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Prevents cancer cells from multiplying
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Induces apoptosis (programmed cell death) in leukemia cells
Side Effects:
Common Side Effects:
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Nausea and vomiting
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Diarrhea or constipation
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Fatigue and weakness
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Loss of appetite
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Headache
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Swelling in hands or feet (fluid retention)
Severe Side Effects (Rare but Serious):
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Low blood cell counts (Anemia, Neutropenia, Thrombocytopenia)
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Lung problems (Pleural Effusion, Pulmonary Hypertension) – Shortness of breath, chest pain
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Bleeding complications (Severe nosebleeds, internal bleeding)
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Heart problems (Irregular heartbeat, heart failure)
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Liver or kidney dysfunction
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Severe infections (due to low immunity)
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any severe side effects.
Dosage (Typical Recommended Dose):
For Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML):
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Chronic phase CML: 100 mg once daily
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Accelerated phase CML: 140 mg once daily
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If prescribed 50mg tablets, dosage adjustment depends on medical evaluation.
For Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL):
Important:
Method of Administration:
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Take the tablet once daily with or without food.
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Swallow whole with water – do not crush, break, or chew the tablet.
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Avoid grapefruit juice, as it may increase drug toxicity.
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If you vomit after taking the tablet, do not take another dose—wait until the next scheduled dose.
Precautions:
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Monitor blood counts regularly to prevent complications like anemia and infections.
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Patients with heart conditions should use it cautiously.
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Avoid live vaccines while taking Dasakast, as your immune system may be weakened.
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Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid using this medication.
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Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you experience dizziness or vision problems.
Drug Interactions:
Dasakast 50mg may interact with:
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Antacids (Proton Pump Inhibitors & H2 Blockers) – Avoid Omeprazole, Pantoprazole, Ranitidine, etc., as they reduce drug absorption.
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Blood Thinners (Warfarin, Aspirin, Clopidogrel) – Increases the risk of bleeding.
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Antifungal & Antibiotics (Ketoconazole, Clarithromycin, Rifampin) – May increase or decrease drug levels.
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Immunosuppressants & Chemotherapy Drugs – Can increase toxicity risk.
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Grapefruit juice – Avoid as it can raise drug levels in the body.
Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Allergies (Warnings for Allergic Reactions):
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Do not use if you are allergic to Dasatinib or any excipients in the formulation.
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Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, swelling, difficulty breathing, and dizziness.
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Seek emergency medical help if you experience severe allergic reactions.
Overdose Information:
Symptoms of overdose:
- Severe nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Sudden drop in blood pressure
- Bleeding disorders
- Shortness of breath
What to do in case of overdose?
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Seek immediate medical attention.
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The doctor may provide supportive care or recommend dialysis in severe cases.
Missed Dose Instructions:
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If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
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If it is close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue the regular schedule.
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Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.
Additional Notes:
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Regular blood tests are essential to monitor white blood cell count and platelet levels.
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Patients should avoid NSAIDs (like Ibuprofen or Diclofenac) to minimize bleeding risks.
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Long-term use requires periodic cardiac and lung function monitoring.
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Hydration is essential—drink plenty of fluids to reduce kidney stress.